WHAT IS HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE)?

WHAT IS HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE)?

DESCRIPTION:

• A high blood pressure is termed as Hypertension.
• Abnormally high blood pressure.
• A state of great emotional tension.
• For an adult (ages 18 and above), a normal BP is a  systolic BP below 120 mm Hg and a diastolic pressure below 80 mm Hg.
• An individual classified with pre hypertension has a systolic BP between 120-139 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure between 80 and 89 mm Hg.
• Stage 1 hypertension can be classified as a systolic BP between 140 and 159 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure between 90 and 99 mm Hg.
• Stage 2 hypertension can be classified as a systolic BP equal to or greater than 160 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure equal to or greater than 100 mm Hg.
• Hypertension is a major risk factor for coronary, cerebral, renal, and peripheral vascular disease.
• Hypertension is initially asymptomatic.
• The goals of treatment include reduction of the BP and preventing or lessening the extent of organ damage.
• Non pharmacological approaches, such as life styles, may be prescribed initially; if the BP cannot be decreased after a reasonable time period (1 to 3 months), the client may require pharmacological treatment.

PRIMARY OR ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION:

RISK FACTORS:

• Aging
• Family history
• African American race
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Stress
• Excessive alcohol
• Hyper lipidemia
• Increased intake of salt and caffeine

SECONDARY HYPERTENSION:

• Secondary hypertension occurs as a result of other disorder or conditions.
• Treatment depends on the cause and the organs involved.
• Precipitating disorders or conditions.

1. cardiovascular disorders
2. renal disorders
3. endocrine system disorders
4. pregnancy
5. medications (e.g., estrogen, glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids)

ASSESSMENT:

• May be asymptomatic (Idiopathic)
• Headache
• Visual Disturbances
• Dizziness
• Chest pain
• Tinnitus
• Flushed face
• Epistaxis